"Star Trek" fans would happy to know that they can soon catch the beloved franchise on television once again.
CBS Television Studios announced on Monday that the network will be releasing a new TV series for "Star Trek," which is slated for a January 2017 premiere date. According to Mashable:
"Following an airing of a 'special preview broadcast,' the series will subsequently be available exclusively on the network's digital streaming service, CBS All Access. As a CBS press release notes, the platform already features every episode of every previous 'Star Trek' series."
The press release states:
"The brand new 'Star Trek' will introduce new characters seeking imaginative new worlds and new civilizations, while exploring the dramatic contemporary themes that have been a signature of the franchise since its inception in 1966.
"Alex Kurtzman will serve as executve producer for the new 'Star Trek' TV series. Kurtzman co-wrote and produced the blockbuster films 'Star Trek' (2009) with Roberto Orci, and 'Star Trek Into Darkness' (2013) with Orci and Damon Lindelof. Both films were produced and directed by J.J. Abrams.
"The new series will be produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Kurtzman's Secret Hideout. Kurtzman and Heather Kadin will serve as executive producers. Kurtzman is also an executive producer for the his CBS television series 'SCORPION' and 'LIMITLESS,' along with Kadin and Orci, and for 'HAWAII FIVE-0' with Orci."
Turns out, the new TV series won't be connected to "Star Trek Beyond," which is the third installment of J.J. Abrams' reboot of the "Star Trek" film franchise. "Star Trek" will see its 50th anniversary on 2016.
CBS Television Studios president David Stapf said in a statement:
"There is no better time to give 'Star Trek' fans a new series than on the heels of the original show's 50th anniversary celebration. [...] Everyone here has great respect for this storied franchise, and we're excited to launch its next television chapter in the creative mind and skilled hands of Alex Kurtzman, someone who knows this world and its audience intimately."
Stay tuned for more updates on the new "Star Trek" TV series.